Thriving communities: Supporting independent travel

A specially converted bus to support students aged 16-19 with neurodivergent conditions gain confidence to travel safely and independently was unveiled at the Powerhouse FE college in Farsley, Leeds, this week (Wednesday 9 July).

First Bus in Leeds has converted the single-decker bus to create a ‘classroom’ area for students and redesigned the exterior to match the college’s identity.

All the interior features have been retained to create a real-life bus experience, which teachers will use to develop role play and other activities to explain safer travel, driver interaction, paying fares and lessons in using the bus network.

It also supports a display in the college's interactive setting showing travel information, such as bus and train timetables.

The bus features alongside specially built installations at the college which support familiarity with a variety of services and aspects of daily life, including a supermarket, retail, fast food, banking, hospitality and a Post Office.

Developing life skills

First Bus has been working with Powerhouse since the spring as part of its broader support for young people in developing vital life skills and confidence to access sports, social and cultural activities and further education.

A group of 30 students have benefitted from sessions with the team at its nearby Bramley depot in West Leeds, aimed at building confidence and independence.

First Bus has been supported in converting the bus with tyres donated by manufacturer Bridgestone, engineering services from PVS Barnsley, which manages the decommissioning of vehicles, LW Graphics in Bradford and Sparrow Recovery and Repairs, which towed the bus into its new home at Powerhouse.